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Nawal Al-Hosany

UAE’s permanent representative @IRENA and serving on the boards of several initiatives & organisations regionally & internationally

Professional Background

Nawal Al-Hosany is a distinguished figure in the field of sustainable architecture and renewable energy, currently serving as the UAE’s permanent representative to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). With a robust career spanning over a decade in high-level positions, she has made significant contributions to the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development and energy innovation. Her leadership roles have included former Deputy Director General at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing the country’s diplomatic outreach and strategy concerning global energy issues. Additionally, she held several key positions at Masdar, including Executive Director and Director of Sustainability, where she was instrumental in projects promoting renewable energy and environmental sustainability, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a greener future.

Throughout her career, Nawal has demonstrated a remarkable ability to bridge the gap between academia and practical applications in the field of architectural engineering and sustainability, fostering innovation and strategic planning in various projects. Her expertise has been recognized on an international level, making her a sought-after speaker and participant in global forums focused on sustainable development and renewable energy initiatives.

Education and Achievements

Nawal has built a solid educational foundation that complements her professional endeavors. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from UAE University, equipping her with vital knowledge in design and environmental considerations in architecture. Nawal further advanced her education by pursuing Organizational Leadership at GE Crotonville and obtaining a Ph.D. in Sustainable Architecture from Newcastle University, where she honed her research and analytical skills in sustainability practices.

To enhance her strategic thinking and innovation skills, she completed an Executive Education Program in Innovation Strategies in a Changing World at Harvard Business School. Furthermore, Nawal was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters from Keele University, a testament to her contributions to the fields of architecture and renewable energy.

Notable Achievements

Nawal Al-Hosany’s achievements are numerous and reflect her commitment to social and environmental progress. As the Executive Director at Masdar, she managed initiatives aimed at advancing the UAE’s leadership in renewable energy and sustainable urban development. Her tenure saw the development of groundbreaking projects that not only addressed the UAE’s energy needs but also set a global standard for sustainable practices in architecture.

Additionally, Nawal’s involvement as Director and Vice Chair of the Prize Selection Committee at the Zayed Future Energy Prize has been crucial in honoring innovation and leadership in renewable energy. Her role has contributed significantly to recognizing individuals and organizations that make impactful changes in how energy is utilized and perceived globally. Nawal has also served as a member of the Review Committee for the Zayed Future Energy Prize, further showcasing her expertise and dedication to promoting sustainable energy.

Before her pursuits in the renewables sector, Nawal was engaged in law enforcement as the Planning Deputy Director at Abu Dhabi Police, and Head of Studies and Design. This unique background provided her with a diverse perspective on policy planning and community engagement that she later applied in her sustainable architecture projects.

Overall, Nawal Al-Hosany’s multifaceted career, substantiated by her solid educational background and an array of professional achievements, underscores her status as a leader in sustainable architecture and renewable energy, and her commitment to fostering innovation within these fields. Her continuing work at IRENA positions her at the forefront of global energy discussions, where she advocates for sustainable practices and international collaboration toward a greener future.

Related Questions

How did Nawal Al-Hosany transform her research in Sustainable Architecture into actionable policies at IRENA?
What innovations in renewable energy did Nawal Al-Hosany promote during her tenure at Masdar?
In what ways has Nawal Al-Hosany's education shaped her approach to leadership in the field of sustainable development?
How has Nawal Al-Hosany applied her background in architectural engineering to influence energy sustainability initiatives?
What role does Nawal Al-Hosany see for the UAE in leading global renewable energy efforts?
Nawal Al-Hosany
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Location

United Arab Emirates